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Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists provide services to individuals
whose ability to cope with the activities of daily living are impaired by
physical illness or injury, congenital or developmental disability, or the
aging process. The goal of the therapist is to help their patients regain their
independence and good health. Therapists use several types of activities to
evaluate and treat patients. With children, they may use toys and games. In
treating adults, the therapists may use computers, work simulation, leisure
activities, self-care tasks, and other methods. Adaptive equipment such as
wheelchairs, splints, and eating and dressing aids are provided by the
therapist when needed. The effectiveness of the activity and progress of the
patient are carefully monitored and recorded by occupational therapists.
Work Environment
Occupational therapists work in hospitals, community
health centers, home health agencies, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes,
industrial facilities, schools, research facilities, private homes, and
laboratories.
Job Outlook
Occupational therapy is one of the fastest growing health
professions in the nation. The job market is expected to increase dramatically
through the end of the 1990s and into the next century. Community settings and
geographic areas that are underserved by occupational therapists offer the
greatest job opportunities.
Length of Training/
Requirements
Three routes are offered: a bachelor's degree, a
post-baccalaureate certificate program, or a professional master's degree
program. All OT education programs include a period of supervised clinical
experience. |
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Salary
Salary depends on education, geography, job setting, and experience. Current salaries range from
$48,000 - $90,000.
Educational Programs
Bachelor's/Master's/Doctoral Degrees
Texas Tech University
Health Sciences Center
Texas Woman's University
- Houston
University of San Antonio
The University of Texas at El Paso
The University of Texas at
San Antonio
The University of Texas
Health Science Center at San Antonio
The University of Texas
Medical Branch at Galveston
Professional Associations
American Occupational
Therapy Association (AOTA)
P.O. Box 31220
4720
Montgomery Lane
Bethesda, MD 20824-1220
301/652-2682 or 800/377-8555
Texas Occupational Therapy
Association
6225 U.S. Hwy. 290 East
Austin, TX 78723
512/454-8682 or 800/843-8682
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